OC4 with very loose universals, Any Ideas for a retro fit?

[mmoscari]

I recently replaced the clutch plate on my 1956 OC4.  While I had it apart, I also replaced both universals from Zimmerman.  After 15 or 20 hours of use I adjusted the clutch free play and noticed that the new universals are very loose. They can move about 1/8 to 3/16 of an inch  side to side.  The bushings themselves aren't too bad.  Has anyone ever replaced the stock universals and bushings with more a modern type with needle bearings that can be greased?  I'm a Machinist, so I can fabricate most anything.  They are so small, I have no idea what vehicle or machine parts to look for.

[yellowcrawler]

I had a similar problem with new universals on an OC-3, called Zimmerman's, since I bought the parts from them also.  They recommended installing O-rings to fill the gap between the caps and the cross, then it worked fine.

[mmoscari]

That would have been good to know before I installed them, but when I first put them in they weren't so loose.  They didnt look very durable when they were new, just bushings, with no way to grease them.  If I have to do them over again, Im going to retrofit something better. with needle bearings and regular closed end caps.  Thanks for the advice anyway.

[John Schwiebert]

Later ones did have Spicer joints with needle bearing crosses. I am out of town for about 8 to 10 days. Remind me of this when I come back. John.

[walter hudson]

There is no bearing joint to replace old Ford style joint . Late model OC3/OC4 came  with a shaft that used bearing style ujoints. The shafts are standard spline so a drive shaft shop could make one but since you need four yokes it is kind of expensive .
Walter